Document Type : Original Article
Researcher
Student
Ministerial Ethics Committee
Parkour is a dynamic and rapidly growing sport that has gained popularity among the younger generation, focusing on the smooth and safe traversal of various obstacles. One of the key components of this discipline includes climbing over obstacles and landing from heights. Landing is considered one of the most challenging aspects of parkour, requiring precise coordination of the neuromuscular system and proper engagement of the lower limb joints to absorb the impact energy resulting from a fall. If this process is not executed correctly, the risk of injuries such as ligament tears or cartilage damage increases.
Parkour movements are typically performed in urban environments and on uneven surfaces with varying heights. Despite the increasing popularity of the sport, limited scientific research has been conducted on the techniques employed by practitioners—referred to in the specialized literature as "traceurs." Existing studies suggest that there are biomechanical differences in landing strategies between males and females. However, the available data on these sex-based distinctions—especially in the context of parkour and among young populations—remain scarce.
Findings from some studies indicate that gender differences in landing dynamics may influence both the performance and safety of movement execution. This issue is particularly important among youth and individuals in developmental age groups, as factors related to physical growth and motor skill development can affect the selection and execution of landing techniques.
Given these considerations, the present study aims to investigate and compare the landing strategies between male and female parkour practitioners aged 18 to 25.